
Brain Metastases
Brain Metastases is commonly treated with radiation therapy. The technology we use and the number of treatments depends on how advanced the cancer is (stage) and what type of symptoms you have (if any).
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with brain metastasis, click the link below to request a consultation with a Coastal Radiation Oncologist.
Typical Treatments
For information about the types of technology available through Coastal Radiation Oncology
What To Expect
Once your doctors have determined that radiation therapy may be part of the treatment plan for your Brain Metastases, there will be a few steps to allow the radiation oncology team to begin treatment safely.
These include:
- CT simulation
- Treatment plan design (dosimetry)- Verification
- Start of daily treatments
- Weekly doctor visits with your radiation oncologist
Side Effects
Short term:
Many people do not develop significant side effects during radiation treatment. If you are considering radiation therapy as part of your cancer treatment, it is important to know what side effects are possible so you can make a good decision about the treatment that is right for you.
More likely-
Tiredness
-
Temporary increase in headaches
Less likely
-
Loss of hair
-
Scalp redness/soreness
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Nausea/vomiting
Long term:
After the short-term side effects of radiation therapy resolve, others may become noticeable months or years later.
More likely-
Changes in thinking patterns and decreased ability to concentrate
-
Decrease in hearing
Less likely
-
Cataracts
-
Nausea/vomiting
-
Dry mouth
-
Loss of appetite
-
Abnormal hormone levels
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More Information
For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases, please visit the following websites:
RT Answers
https://www.rtanswers.org/Cancer-Types/Brain-Metastases
American Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults.html